First Look: Tomica Limited Vintage Toyota Century...

At first I want to say this model is an acquired taste, but after thinking about it a bit more there is no such thing.

It is, in typical Tomica Limited Vintage fashion, and perfect miniature of a Japanese car. But this isn't an obscure Japanese car. It's an icon. The Toyota Century could be compared to some Cadillacs, or some Lincolns, and many other flagships. But it is more than that.

Maybe think Rolls Royce. The Century is THE Flagship. It isn't "the family is growing and we need a bigger sedan" car, it's all about status. One doesn't walk in to a dealership asking to test drive the Century. Not even to give it a sniff. Still today, proof of sufficient social status is needed to even get a brochure.

And like a classic watch or jewelry, there is no need for it to change. The look of a Rolex hasn't drastically changed at all over the years. Same with the Century. There is no need. Imagine visiting the Cadillac dealership, and among the CTS's and Escalades sits a brand new 2015 Sedan Deville that looks almost exactly like it did nearly 50 years ago. That's the Century.

The Toyota Century hit dealerships in 1967, and outside of some minor aesthetic changes and obvious technological advances, looked essentially the same until 1997. The new Century made its debut after that, and still didn't deviate too much from the original. How awesome is that?

So while JDM fanboys might get themselves giddy over TLV's upcoming 2-door 510, the Century is a significant new model. TLV rolled out the red carpet for this one, with special packaging just like the Nismo GT-R's, an incredible amount of detail - just look at the wheels - and even fender mirrors you need to add on (we will do that later). Both models, in signature black and gray, are the diecast equivalent of the real thing.

And that is why Japan Booster can barely hold onto them. Those in the know want them, and they sell out quickly. For our friends in Japan, these are must-haves. Same for us at Lamley...